‘Evil Dead’ star Bruce Campbell reveals cancer diagnosis
Horror icon and principal star of the Evil Dead series, Bruce Campbell, has been diagnosed with a “treatable” but not “curable” form of cancer.
The news of his “shock” diagnosis was shared on social media as an explanation for his cancelled public appearances. “I’m posting this, because professionally, a few things will have to change – appearances and cons and work in general need to take [a] backseat to treatment,” he revealed on Monday, 2nd March.
“There are several cons this year summer [sic] that I have to cancel,” Campbell furthered. “Big regrets on my part. Treatment needs and professional obligations don’t always go hand-in-hand.”
The 67-year-old actor shared no further details on the type of cancer and treatment options, but hoped to be healthy enough in the summer to tour his upcoming comedy feature Ernie & Emma, a project he has written, directed, and starred in.
“Fear not, I am a tough old son-of-a-bitch and I have great support, so I expect to be around a while,” he reassured his fans.
“As always, you’re the greatest fans in the world and I hope to see you soon!” Campbell stated. The news was met with thousands of comments from fans wishing the star well.
Campbell forged a steady career in the world of horror and sci-fi since the early 1980s, but is best known for playing Ash Williams in the first three Evil Dead entries, 1981’s The Evil Dead, followed by Evil Dead II in 1987 and Army of Darkness in 1992.
He also returned to the series for the Ash vs Evil Dead TV show between 2015 and 2018, and lent his voice in 2023’s Evil Dead Rise.
A veteran of the famous supernatural zombie franchise, Campbell also serves as executive producer on the upcoming Evil Dead Rise, due for release this July, co-produced by original film director Sam Raimi, along with Rob Tapert. Campbell’s film credits also include roles in the Coen brothers’ Fargo and The Hudsucker Proxy, plus cameos in Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy.
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